Proposals on a new home for Ayr Grammar Primary School

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Ayr Grammar could find a new home as South Ayrshire Council investigates the continued use of Ayr Academy when the building becomes vacant.

The secondary school students and staff are set to move to a new build school at Craigie in August 2017.

The primary school could benefit by moving into the iconic building when it's empty, ensuring that this important structure in the heart of Ayr town centre continues to be a centre of learning.

The move would mean bigger PE and dining facilities, more social space for the children and accessible upper floors. The site at Ayr Academy would be transformed providing an abundance of indoor and outdoor space for the school and the community.

Architects have been working on creative and inspirational ideas for the building which include innovative indoor and outdoor space and a multi-use games facility. There could also be a new nursery class and areas for community arts including a gallery that could be accessed throughout the day.

Initial discussions have taken place between the Council and Ayr Grammar Primary School's Parent Council and sketches have been drawn up to show how the building could be completely refurbished to facilitate the move. Letters have also been sent out to parents outlining the proposals and encouraging their feedback.

The current catchment would be maintained if the primary school were to move and there are no plans to change Kyle Academy as the associated secondary school.

If the project were to go ahead after Ayr Academy staff and pupils move out, it has been estimated that Ayr Grammar could move in by early 2019.

Councillor Margaret Toner, Lifelong Learning Portfolio Holder at South Ayrshire Council said: "The architects are working towards creating a learning environment which will inspire primary school children and this has to be our main objective. This is an exciting opportunity and would make a huge difference to the lives of everyone involved. We need to ensure that pupils, parents, staff and the parent council are on board with the idea.

"There will be statutory consultation with all stakeholders as required by law which is likely to begin in February 2016, but in the meantime we would welcome informal feedback on the proposals."

Gail Gilbert, Head teacher at Ayr Grammar said: "This is an exciting opportunity for everyone involved with the school and I would encourage everyone to have their say."

Marsha Ford, Chair of the Parent Council said "I am delighted the school would remain in the town centre, and fully benefit from the modernisation of this historic building and site. The proposal offers a fantastic opportunity for Ayr Grammar, its pupils and the local community."